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Monday, October 27, 2014

On the Air: WWPV

I've enjoyed having a radio station since my sophomore year at Saint Mike's. Primarily it was fun just to be on the air, but over the course of a few semesters I've also found a lot of joy in planning playlists/segments and thinking about themes for shows. It's an outlet for creativity, and the actual broadcast is satisfying because it's an output; having a radio show makes me feel productive.

Since my little brother is also at Saint Mike's this fall as a first-year, we decided to do a show together. Since we're at different stages in the college process, having a few hours (5-7PM on Saturdays!) to chill together helps us ensure that we'll hang out regularly (at least once a week, but it ends up being more). It's pretty frequent that students pair up for show slots, and I think it's a cool way of blending music tastes and trying to find themes that intersect with different styles.

Overall, the process of becoming a WWPV DJ isn't too hard, but that's not to say that everyone gets a spot. You're asked to fill out an application with some simple questions, and they ask you to talk about musical taste and plans for a show if you get one. The station is run by an executive board (e-board) of elected students, which is pretty cool because it speaks to the accountability and responsibility of that board of students.

Once accepted as a DJ, you're expected to play radio-appropriate music (including some new music, designated by the e-board), broadcast a certain number of public service announcements (PSA's), and identify the station ("You're listening to WWPV...") every so often. Other than that DJ's are allowed quite a bit of autonomy in terms of content, and are largely encouraged to be unique and thoughtful. Some people have talk-show segments, or play entirely music. Others offer advice, tips, stories, or something interesting that can't necessarily be found on mainstream radio. It may not be a booming

DJ's Rosey & Benja chillin in the station.

medium, but radio provides many Saint Mike's students with an avenue to pursue conversation, provoke thought, and also play great tunes.

If you're looking to tune in some time, turn the transistor to FM 88.7 in the Burlington/Colchester/Essex Jxn area. If you're elsewhere, find us via this link.